Yeh you dont need an IMC for any purpose relating to fATPL. You also should not be thinking about 20 grand for a type rating ,the whole reason this situation exists is because people are thinking like that .
Rugbyears I think you are getting confused , he said he was training toward an ATPL this means that it will include an IR regardless you cant have a fATPL without it , as stated above the MCC varies , it is also not a requirment of a fATPl it is a requirement laid down by some ,but not all operators . Not sure what PPL, IMC ,Frozen ATPL ,CPL is
PPL
Hour Build
atpl theory (although this can be done prior to hour build its whatever suits)
MER
CPL
IR
that is your CPL/IR more commonly referred to as a fATPL there is no actual qualification as a fATPL.
that is the modular way , although I didnt do it I dont believe you actually hold a PPL when going integrated you just progress from GS to Hour Building following your initial PPL type course but you never actually apply for the licence